Posted Tue Nov 20, 2012, 12:53pm Subject: Need help in deciding between the Gaggia classic and the Saeco Via Venezia

This will be my first espresso machine. I am a complete novice and would like to start out simple at first. My one must have is that it must have a pressurized portafilter because my husband will NOT even attempt to tamp. I would also like to stay under $500. I plan on using espresso grinds until I can buy a good grinder. Both my husband and I prefer lattes if that makes a difference when choosing a machine. I would prefer a model that will not break down within the first 3 years.

After tons of research I narrowed my list down between the Saeco Via Venezia and the Gaggia classic. Which one is best in your opinion?

I rather buy new because I would like to get a warranty. I am not handy and would prefer to just send it off to be fixed. I am purchasing from Amazon since they have a 3 year warranty for $39.99. If I stick to making espressos at home, I will buy a grinder in another 6mo. First I need to save some money. I visit Starbucks at least 2x a day and so does my husband. We need something in this house ASAP.

See what is shown in the photo I think that might be a good way to start with a good grinder. Then get great beans. Then get a good machine. You probably don't have a good espresso show room around you, but if you can get to one or have a friend with a machine it would help you a lot to get some hands on. There might even be other Coffeegeeks in your area willing to give you a tour of their machines.

Thanks I read all the threads. I will buy a Rancilio Rocky grinder and I am leaning more towards the Saeco Via Venezia simply because I am a little concerned with how few retailers sell the Gaggia. WLL still sells the Gaggia but without an extended warranty which leaves me with having to purchase it from Amazon. I can order the Via Venizia and the Grinder from SCG who I think will give me more personalized service plus I can still get an extended warranty. Please let me know if this is a good decision.

That would be a nice starter set up. My guess is that seattlecoffeegear is not a gaggia vendor. Gaggia classic has a better rep than the saeco but really for the price the saeco is not a bad starter machine. If you upgrade the machine you will not be happy with the rocky for long. But for now it is fine.

I have not bought anything from SCG but they seem nice in person and the videos they do are really helpful.

I hope to be ok with the Ranchillo Rocky grinder because I plan on upgrading to the Silvia in a year or so if I can convince my husband to tamp at that time. I can't make an espresso for him because he leaves for work around 5am and I don't get up until 6am to get my kids ready for school and I am not waking up an hour earlier just to make his drink.

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